The Office of Communications and Outreach leads ED's communications and outreach efforts. Led by Acting Assistant Secretary Massie Ritsch, OCO oversees press relations, publications, contacts with organizations, and communication with parents, educators, students, and citizens.

OCO is responsible for:

• Social media

• Press releases, speeches, photos, RSS feeds, biographies of senior staff and more (see Press Room)

• ED blog

• ED publications

• Customer service

• Video and webcast

• Several newsletters: ED Review, Touching Base. Teaching Matters

• Resources for parents

• Resources for Teaching (also see FREE)

• Regional Offices

• Teaching Ambassador Fellowship Program

• Recognition programs: U.S. Presidential Scholars, NCLB National Blue Ribbon Schools, President’s Education Awards and U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools